A 0.30kg glider is attached to a horizontal spring of force constant k=25Nm−1 on an air track that introduces negligible air resistance but does exert kinetic friction. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the glider and track is μk=0.05. At t=0, the glider is pulled 0.10m to the right of equilibrium and released from rest.
(a) Write an expression for the net horizontal force acting on the glider the instant it is released and again when it passes through the equilibrium position moving leftward. Indicate the direction of each force you include.
(b) Determine whether the glider’s subsequent motion exactly satisfies the defining condition for SHM. Provide a concise but complete explanation based on your expressions from part (a).
(c) Calculate the magnitude of the glider’s acceleration at the moment it is 0.10m to the right of equilibrium and moving leftward.
(d) Describe qualitatively how the amplitude of the motion will evolve over several cycles and explain what effect, if any, this amplitude change has on the period of oscillation.